Chief Strategy and Public Relations Officer

Isilumko Staffing; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic organizational leader is seeking an experienced Chief Strategy and Public Relations Officer to lead its strategy and communications functions. This role includes formulating strategies, enhancing brand reputation, managing PR, and engaging stakeholders. Ideal candidates should possess strong leadership capabilities, strategic insight, and a proven track record in corporate communications. The location is in Johannesburg, South Africa. This is an opportunity to drive impactful change within a visionary organization.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic planning and public relations management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to analyze performance data and provide strategic insights.

Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation and execution of the organisation’s strategy.
• Develop strategies to diversify revenue streams through partnerships.
• Manage media relations and secure positive coverage.
• Use data analytics to drive strategic insights.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and manage cross-functional projects.

Skills

Corporate Communication & Media Relations

Reputation Management

Policy Development & Positioning

Integrated Marketing Communication

Strategic Reporting & Monitoring

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Strategy and Public Relations Officer to lead the organisation’s Strategy, Business Intelligence, Monitoring & Evaluation, and Communications functions. This executive role supports the Board, CEO, and EXCO by driving strategic planning, organisational insights, brand reputation, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy Development

• Lead the formulation and execution of the organisation’s Strategy.
• Set strategic priorities and translate them into annual performance plans.
• Integrate research, policy, technology, and business intelligence into strategic direction.
• Ensure organisation-wide understanding and implementation of strategic goals.
• Support due diligence and strategic business projects.
• Identify innovative growth opportunities in service delivery.

Financial Management

• Develop strategies to diversify revenue streams through grants, donors, and partnerships.
• Manage departmental budgets and ensure cost control.

Public Relations Management

• Lead PR strategies to elevate the organisation’s profile.
• Manage media relations and secure positive coverage.
• Oversee branding, external communications, and stakeholder messaging.
• Represent the organisation at industry events and public platforms.
• Develop crisis communication strategies.
• Monitor media sentiment and proactively manage reputational risks.

Business Intelligence & Team Leadership

• Use data analytics to drive strategic insights and process improvements.
• Conduct or commission market research to identify trends and opportunities.
• Develop business cases, models, and scenario forecasts.
• Lead, mentor, and develop high‑performing teams across Strategy, BI, and Communications.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Develop KPIs to track strategic progress.
• Analyse performance data and provide executive‑level recommendations.
• Ensure regulatory and ethical compliance in reporting.

Stakeholder Engagement & Project Leadership

• Build strong relationships with board members, donors, government, partners, and communities.
• Manage cross‑functional projects, define scope, and oversee deliverables.
• Maintain positive relationships with clients, partners, media, and internal teams.

Key Competencies

• Corporate Communication & Media Relations
• Reputation Management
• Policy Development & Positioning
• Integrated Marketing Communication
• Strategic Reporting & Monitoring
• Visionary, innovative, and forward‑thinking
• Politically astute with strong emotional intelligence
• Credible, influential, and adaptable communication